Disadvantages

In Mario Kart 7, they offer good speed and weight, but bad acceleration and handling.

In Mario Kart 8, they give an advantage in speed and weight, but a disadvantage in acceleration and traction. Its stats are identical with the Metal wheels.

History

Mario Kart 7

The Gold Tires makes its first appearance in Mario Kart 7. They can be unlocked by collecting 15,000 coins or getting a star rank on every cup for every engine class.

They are tied for the weakest handling boost along with Slick, Monster and Red Monster.

Mario Kart 8

They return in Mario Kart 8, with an updated appearance from the previous installment. They can be unlocked by getting 15,000 coins or by beating every staff ghost on every track (excluding the DLC tracks).

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

The gold tires are now harder to get, having to get every staff ghost on every track including DLC.